Class Monogonontaet: Order Ploimida: Family Colurellidae (ref. ID; 6806)
Synonym Eulepadella Hauer, 1926 (ref. ID; 3688); Hexastomma Schmarda, 1859 (ref. ID; 3688); Metopidia Ehrenberg, 1830 (ref. ID; 1345, 1923) or 1832 (ref. ID; 2978, 3688); Notogonia Perty, 1850 (ref. ID; 3688); Xenolepadella Hauer, 1926 (ref. ID; 3688)
Lorica composed of a dorsal and a ventral plate and compressed dorsoventrally. Dorsal and ventral plates rigidly united at the edges. With an anterior opening for the protrusion of the head and a posterior opening through which the foot projects. Foot well developed, with 3-4 segments. Toes two, moderately long. (Eyes two.) Body length 60 to 180 µm. Littoral species. (ref. ID; 1663)
ref. ID; 1943
The genus Lepadella is divided into three subgenera - Lepadella (Syn. Eulepadella Hauer 1926), Heterolepadella Bartos 1955 and Xenolepadella Hauer 1926 which have equally long and free toes, unequal and free toes, and partly fused toes respectively. (ref. ID; 1943)
ref. ID; 3334
In this genus the single-piece lorica that completely encircles the body is compressed dorso-ventrally. The foot opening is large and is situated between the middle and the posterior end of the ventral surface. The foot has three or four segments and two long and slender toes. The head has a pair of lateral eyes. The mastax has malleate trophi. (ref. ID; 3334)
Lepadella abbei Wulfert, 1956 (ref. ID; 2932 original paper, 2993)
Under the name "Metopidia quadricarinata" Stenroos (1898) described a form which was said to differ from L. patella in three respects: the shape of the lorica (relatively broad), the appearance of the foot groove (inter alia its straight back edge) and the existence of four longitudinal ridges at the back of the dorsal plate. von Hofsten (1909, p.69 and 1923, p.863) sees no justification for this species, partly because he has found intermediate forms between it and L. patella. Harring, too, (1916, p.540) sees in "M. quadricarinata' only a form of L. patella. Olofsson (1917, p.282 and 1918, p.598), however, regards the form as a separate species, even through in his Spitzbergen material he usually only saw two of the ridges in question. Hauer, too, (1936, p.143) includes the form in his list as a separate species, but adds that he does not wish to commit himself on the question of its independence. Hauer's form is sail to be characterized by certain constant characteristics ("konstant gleichen Merkmale"). Furthermore the lorica apparently varies so slightly that the animal can easily be picked out from others in the same sample. There thus seems to be a certain lack of morphological continuity between "L. quadricarinata" and L. patella s.str. in Hauer's material. In the Lapland samples, however, no such discontinuity has been observed. On certain occasions Pejler came across specimens with the four ridges on the dorsal plate but with the back edge of the foot groove bent inwards at the centre, on others specimens had the same foot groove as "L. quadricarinata" but no ridges. Pejler has also observed specimens with ridges and foot groove as in "L. quadricarinata" but with a rather narrow lorica, like that of L. patella s. str. etc. All possible combination of the three characteristics in question have occurred. A study of the illustrations in the literature on the subject also reveals the wide variation of the L. patella complex with regard to the shape of the lorica and the appearance of the foot groove (see amongst others op. cit. above and Hauer 1952, Figs.9-11 and 1958, Pl.2:14, Donner 1954, Fig.21g-h and Klement 1959, p.206 and Figs.44-46). These characteristics are also influenced by the degree of contraction, since the lorica is usually, slightly flexible and the appearance of the animal is different in life, under anaesthesia and when fixed. Finally as regards the third distinguishing mark of the species, the longitudinal ridges on the lorica, it is said that they are not always easy to distinguish (Olofsson 1918; Voigt 1956-1957), and sometimes there are only two (Harring 1916; Olofsson 1918), but again there may be six (Klement 1959) or eight (Wulfert 1939). All this makes it clear that at least in the area Pejler have investigated, it is at present hardly possible to regard "L. quadricarinata" as a separate species. Besides the "quadricarinata form series" described above there are other great variations in size and form in Pejler material. The length of the lorica varies between 56 µm and 92 µm, and that of the toes between 15 µm and 25 µm. (ref. ID; 1450)
Lepadella patella Bory de St. Vincent, 1826
See; Lepadella patella var. similis (ref. ID; 3271)
Lorica usually oval in outline and produced posteriorly into a pointed projection of variable length. Morphological variability. (ref. ID; 1004)
This specimen differs considerably from those described by Hilgendorf (1898) from the mouth of the Taieri River. It has a sub-square dorsal sinus, and a fairly heavily stippled broad collar. The first foot joint is obscure. It is suggested that animals found are merely fresh water variations of those described by Hilgendorf from brackish or marine habitats. (ref. ID; 2282)
The lorica is usually oval in outline and the width is about three-quarters of the length. Posteriorly, the lorica is prolonged into a long and pointed projection and the length of this projection is variable. The anterior dorsal sinus is not very deep. Harring's (1916) drawings of material from the United States show a deep dorsal sinus, making the anterior lateral edges of lorica more or less pointed. The dorsal plate bears a granulated collar. There are two curved ridged running parallel to the edges of the dorsal plates, beginning from the anterior third of the body. The ventral plate is almost flat and the cross section of the body is approximately semicircular. The ventral sinus is deep. The foot groove is about one-third the length of the lorica and is oval shaped. The foot is stout and the last foot joint longer than the rest. The toes are long and straight. (ref. ID; 2600)
Lorica prolonged posteriorly into a pointed projection, usually merging with the edges of the lorica, but occasionally with a slight constriction at the base. (ref. ID; 3180)
Measurements
Length of lorica 88; width of lorica 58; anterior width 30; length of foot groove 30; length of foot 20; toes 20 µm. (ref. ID; 1004)
Length of lorica 94-104; maximum width 58-66; anterior width 24-32; toes 22-26 µm. (ref. ID; 1943)
Total length 110; length of lorica 70; width of lorica 70; length of toes and foot 40 µm. (ref. ID; 2282)
Length of lorica 99-110; width of lorica 68-72; width at anterior margin 35; length of foot groove 38; length of foot 34; length of toes 34 µm. (ref. ID; 2600)
The length of the lorica varied between 87 and 94 µm, and the toes were about 22 µm long. (ref. ID; 2683)
Lorica length 90; lorica width 60; toes 22 µm. (ref. ID; 2886)
Length of lorica 64-100; width of lorica 42-60; depth of ventral anterior sulcus 20-28; depth of dorsal anterior sulcus 5-15; height of pedal opening 32-33; width of pedal opening 15-18; length of toes 18-32 µm. (ref. ID; 3275)
Typical specimens having a body length of 100, a width of 60-70 µm according to habitat, and with toes 20 µm in length. (ref. ID; 3521)
Total length 127; lorica length 94; lorica width 61; frontal margin width 25; foot groove length 28; foot groove width 18; ventral occipital sinus length 20 µm. (ref. ID; 4604)
Lepadella quinquecostata (Lucks, 1912) after Koste (1974) and Koste (1978), partim. (ref. ID; 2914, 7846)
Descriptions
Female: Lorica elongate, width about two thirds of length. Head aperture ventrally a deep V-shaped sinus, dorsally semicircular in anterior view, concave in dorsal view, with stippled collar. Lorica dorsally with three groups of longitudinal carinas: one middorsal and a pair of lateral groups, each group consisting of two blunt carinas, fused caudally in the middorsal group. Edge of lorica laterally slightly curved, caudally nearly straight. Foot with tree distinct pseudosegments, the distal one the longest. A pair of equal-sized toes present. (ref. ID; 2914)
Male: Male unknown. (ref. ID; 2914)
Comments
L. amazonica n. sp., is characterised by the configuration and shape of the longitudinal carinas on its dorsal lorica. Three groups of blunt, longitudinal carinas are present. One middorsal group of two carinas, fused distally, and two lateral ones. In this, the species differs from L. quinquecostata (Lucks, 1912), which has five sharp, longitudinal carinas (one middorsal, two intermediate and two lateral), situated at regular distances. Additionally, the general shape of lorica of L. quinquecostata clearly differs from L. amazonica n. sp., in being flatter and more elongate, and in having a differently shaped head aperture. L. berzinsi Segers, 1993 has a similar general shape of lorica, but the disposition of is six sharp, longitudinal carinas in three pairs (middorsal, intermediate and lateral) is different. Although easily distinguished from it L. amazonica n. sp., seems most closely related to L. berzinsi, taking into account the similar general shape of lorica and the presence of six carinas in both species. As L. amazonica n. sp., and L. berzinsi can be considered endemics of South America resp. Africa, the species-pair may represent a case of vicariance. (ref. ID; 2914)
Etymology
The species name amazonica is an adjective, derived from the species' area. (ref. ID; 2914)
Type locality
Pond on Maraca Island, Roraima, Brazil. (ref. ID; 2914)
These amphitropis has a deep, narrow sinus on the posterior margin of the dorsal lorica. The characteristic which differs from the nominaltype in the deep sinus on the ventral lorica, seen laterally. (ref. ID; 4606)
Lepadella angusta Berzins, 1961 (ref. ID; 1313) or 1960 (ref. ID; 3237 original paper)
Descriptions
The lorica is very long and narrow, almost cylindrical; ventrally flat, dorsally rather convex. The anterior margin with dorsal sinus deep and broadly u-shaped, ventral sinus somewhat deeper and v-shaped; dorsal lorica sparsely punctate. The dorsal pores are placed unusually far forward, not far from the dorsal sinus. The foot groove is broad, not reaching the rounded posterior margin of the lorica. The foot is long; terminal segment the longest, and longer than the combined length of the 2 proximal segments together. Terminal segment with 2 small dorsal projections; toes rather long, thin, acute but widened at the proximal part. (ref. ID; 3237)
Comments
Somewhat resembles Lepadella eliptica Wulfert, but is more elongate. Differs especially in the very far forward placed dorsal pores. (ref. ID; 3237)
Type locality
Some individuals from Plenty River, Morang, Victoria, on 6 December 1953. (ref. ID; 3237)
Measurements
Total length 155; length of lorica 105; width of lorica 46; width of dorsal sinus 34; depth of dorsal sinus 18; width of ventral sinus 34; depth of ventral sinus 23; length of foot groove 25; width of foot groove 18; length of foot with toes 65; length of terminal segment 16; length of toes 41 µm. (ref. ID; 3237)
Lepadella quinquecostata (Lucks), after De Smet, 1989 (ref. ID; 2844); Lepadella quinquecostata (Lucks) f. gambiense Berzins, 1957 (ref. ID; 2844)
Diagnosis
L. berzinsi n. sp. resembles L. quinquecostata Lucks. It differs, however, in the disposition of the dorsal carinae (six in L. berzinsi n. sp., five in L. quinquecostata) and in the shape of the lorica, which is relatively flatter and more elongate in L. quinquecostata. L. costatoides Segers has a similar lorica shape, but its dorsal lorica bears short and shallow ridges, not carinae as in L. berzinsi n. sp. (ref. ID; 2844)
Descriptions
Lorica elliptic, width about two thirds of length. Head aperture ventrally a deep V- or U-shaped sinus, dorsally semicircular in anterior view, straight or concave in ventral view, with stippled collar. Dorsal lorica with three pairs of longitudinal carinae, the median pair fused caudally. Posterior edge of lorica nearly straight. Foot with three distinct pseudosegments, the distal one the longest. A pair of equal-sized toes present. (ref. ID; 2844)
Male: Male unknown. (ref. ID; 2844)
Comments
The taxon was originally described as a variety of L. quinquecostata Lucks. The only character shared by L. berzinsi n. sp. and L. quinquecostata is the presence of dorsal carine. As there are no indications of conspecificity, I consider the taxon different at the specific level. The description of L. quinquecostata f. gambiense by Berzins (1957) is insufficient and presumably incorrect. In our specimens, the mediodorsal carinae nearly reach the anterior rim of the lorica, whereas these are reported as relatively short by Berzins (1957). This may be an observational error, as the middorsal carinae are hardly visible in dorsal or ventral view, but conspicuous at any other angle. In Lake Oguta (September 1991), L. quinquecostata and L. berzinsi n. sp. were co-occurring. (ref. ID; 2844)
Etymology
The species is named after its discover, Dr. B. Berzins. (ref. ID; 2844)
Outline of lorica elongate elliptic in dorsal view, almost parallel-sided, about twice as long as broad; broadly rounded posteriorly, more or less abruptly narrowing near head aperture. Head aperture ellipsoid in frontal view, with more or less deep and broadly U-shaped or broadly V-shaped ventral sinus; a finely stipples dorsal and ventral collar, posterior margin broaded by cuticular thickening dorsally. Head with large and rounded cap-like plate. Lorica in lateral view with curved dorsal and ventral margin narrowing to a blunt end posteriorly; anterior margins rounded with broad and shallow indentation dorsal, producing downwardly projecting appearance; ventrally offset by shallow indentation. Body roughly as high as wide in cross-section, margins undulate. Dorsal lorica with unpaired median keel and two pairs of longitudinal carinate laterally. Ventral lorica with unpaired median keel and two longitudinal carinate ventro-laterally. Uppermost pair of lateral carinate slightly incurved posteriorly; apertures of lateral antennae laterally from incurvations, off anterior pseudosegment of foot. Lorica finely granulated all over. Foot opening broad, rounded anteriorly, slightly flaring posteriorly, reaching posterior margin of lorica. Foot long, with three pseudosegments; posterior pseudosegment ca. 3/5 foot length, with sensory pit dorsally, lateral margins slightly incurved near sensory pit; first and second pseudosegment of equal length; postero-lateral margins of second pseudosegment oblique. Toes equally sized, ca length posterior-pseudosegment, gradually tapering to fine points, slightly decurved in lateral view. (ref. ID; 1313)
Comments
Lepadella beyensi somewhat resembles L. angusta Berzins, 1961 but is easily recognized by the shape of the cross-section, the longitudinal carinate and the toes. It is distinguished from the carinate forms of L. rhomboides (Gosse) by the totally different dorsal body outline, the cross-section and number and position of the carinate. It has a superficial resembles with the larger Colurella species (C. oblonga Donner, 1943, C. mucronulata Ahlstrom, 1938, C. sulcata (Stenroos, 1898)) from which it differs in the absence of a ventral aperture, outline of the cross-section and the ornamentation of the lorica. (ref. ID; 1313)
Lepadella ehrenbergii (Perty, 1850) after Koste (1974) (ref. ID; 2914); Lepadella pterygoides (Dunlop, 1897) (sic.) after Brandorff et al. (1982), Koste (1978), partim. (ref. ID; 2914); Lepadella ptreygoides (sic.) after Koste (1978), partim. (ref. ID; 2914)
Descriptions
Closely resembles with L. (H.) heterostyla but has toes of equal length. Specimens were not presently available for examination of the toes. Hence, the status of this species needs further confirmation. (ref. ID; 1943)
Lepadella biloba is characterised by the shape of its foot aperture having more or less parallel lateral margins and a pair of triangular, acutely pointed distal projections. The species is closest to L. patella (O.F. Muller), which has a posterior margin with smoothly rounded projections, and L. latusinus (Hilgendorf), that has diverging lateral margins of the foot aperture and more pronounced posterior spines.
The taxon was originally considered an infrasubspecific variant of L. patella by Hauer (1958). Later, it was subsequently considered a subspecies by Koch-Althaus (1963) and Kutikova (1970), an infrasubspecific variant by Koste (1978) and, finally, again a subspecies by Koste & Shiel (1989). The constant morphological difference between the two, and the fact that both L. biloba and L. patella have a cosmopolitic distribution support the differentiation of the two taxa. As there is no reason other than a superficial morphological resemblance between them to support their conspecificity, either as subspecies or as infrasubspecific variants, they are treated as different species. (ref. ID; 1324)
The lorica is like that of Lepadella patella habitually, but the foot groove resemble that of L. minuta. The species differ having anterior sinuses. The ventral sinus is deeper than the dorsal one. The foot groove is very wide posteriorly, but is limited anteriorly with a straight border. (ref. ID; 4606)
Type locality
Some individuals found on Mt. Donna Buang. Alt. 1200 m. (ref. ID; 4606)
Rhomboidal lorica with rounded corners, widest in first third. Head opening small, not drawn down ventrally. Foot-opening semicircular at widest point of caudal boundary of dorsal lorica, which is weakly arched towards interior. Three flexible foot-articulations, distal most slender and elongated. Toes symmetrical, long, needle-like and straight. Lorica cross-section shows highly vaulted dorsal lorica with slender downward-drawn lateral wings. Ventral plate with delicate double convex keel. (ref. ID; 2758)
Comments
The new species has similarities with Lepadella benjamini Harring, 1916. In this species, however, the head-opening is cap-like, more or less ventrally drawn down, and the distal foot-articulation is not elongated (12-13 µm). Cf. also an Amazonian form described by Koste (1972, 1978) L. benjamini f. brasiliensis with rounded side rims. The genus is reviewed by Chengalath (1976). (ref. ID; 2758)
Etymology
Named after Rama Chengalath, National Museum of Canada, Ottawa, in appreciation of years of scientific cooperation and friendship with W.K. (ref. ID; 2758)
Occipital part of the lorica is very narrow. The ventrolateral margin on the anterior groove is like a blunt horn. The anterior sinus on the ventral lorica is nearly triangular, with the broadest part down. Level with the hind part of the ventral sinus is a fold situated on the lateral margin of the ventral lorica. The foot groove is very elongate. The dorsal lorica is prolongated posteriorly in a sharp or blunt triangle. The lorica in lateral view is very high and the lateral folds are visible. The toes are thin and normally diverged. (ref. ID; 4606)
Type locality
Some individuals from Hunter River near Gundy. (ref. ID; 4606)
The species can be identified by (1) a flat and broad lorica, (2) a straight posterior edge of the lorica, (3) relatively long toes and (4) a characteristic pattern of weak ridges on the dorsal lorica. The last-mentioned character especially is diagnostic for the species, although it is sometimes hard to see. Characters (1), (3) and (4) distinguish L. costata from L. patella (O.F. Muller), with which it is can be confused in transversally bent specimens. Only (1) and (4) distinguish the species from L. arabica Segers & Dumont. (ref. ID; 6846)
Descriptions
The lorica is broad and oval and the width is more than three-quarters of the length. The dorsal plate has two ribs, which run along the edges and stop a short distance from the end of the lorica. Two shorter ribs can be distinguished towards the middle of the lorica. These ribs are diagnostic. The body is compressed and the ventral plate is flat. The forms found in Ontario agree with the forms described by Wulfert (1940) from Germany, except that the foot groove in Ontario specimens is wider towards the posterior end, unlike that in the German forms, which has a wider base. The last foot joint is longer than the rest. The toes are narrow and pointed. (ref. ID; 2600)
Lorica oval in shape. There are two strengthening keel-likes structures running from the anterior end for about one-third of the body length. Toes long and pointed. (ref. ID; 2715)
Lorica oval, width about three quarters of length, relatively flat. Head aperture normal, with punctated collar. Foot aperture with lateral margins diverging, parallel or converging. Dorsal lorica with 2-3 pairs of weak ridges or folds, the lateral clearest. Posterior edge of lorica straight. Foot consisting of three pseudosegments, the two proximal ones about half the length of the distal one. A pair of relatively long, equal-sized toes present. (ref. ID; 6846)
Measurements
Length of lorica 72-80; width of lorica 65-70; width at anterior margin 30; length of foot groove 22; length of foot 18; length of toes 20 µm. (ref. ID; 2600)
Length of lorica 82; width 77; foot 17; toe 27 µm. (ref. ID; 2715)
Present material: Lorica length 94-98, width 68-73, head aperture width 31-34, foot aperture length 27-29, toe length 32-34 µm. Earlier records: Lorica length 72-80, width 55-70, head aperture width 30, foot aperture length 22, toe length 20-23 µm. (ref. ID; 6846)
Lepadella costata, after De Smet, 1989 (Figs.1a-1e); Segers, 1992; Segers & Dumont, 1992; Segers et al., 1991 (Figs.2a-c) (ref. ID; 6846); Lepadella latusinus striata Koste, 1992 (ref. ID; 3004, 7846)
Differential diagnosis
L. costatoides n. sp. differs from L. costata as follows: (1) the lorica is narrower and higher in L. costatoides; (2) the ridges on the dorsal lorica are much stronger in L. costatoides; (3) caudal processi are present in L. costatoides, absent in L. costata; (4) the toes are of normal length in L. costatoides, but relatively long in L. costata. L. costata is a rare, probably palaearctic species living between Sphagnum (Wulfert 1940; Rudescu 1960; Chengalath 1976), whereas L. costatoides seems to be warm-stenothermic (tropical), living in littoral habitats. (ref. ID; 6846)
Descriptions
Lorica elliptic, width about two thirds of length. Head aperture ventrally a deep V-shaped sinus, dorsally semicircular in anterior view, straight or concave in dorsal view, with punctated collar. Foot aperture with lateral margins diverging, straight or bent. Dorsal lorica with three pairs of longitudinal ridges, the median pair caudally fused. Posterior edge of lorica with a pair of pointed processi laterally to the foot aperture. Foot with three pseudosegments, the two proximal ones about two thirds the length of the distal one. A pair of equal-sized toes present. (ref. ID; 6846)
Comments
The species was only recently differentiated from the similar L. costata Wulfert. (ref. ID; 2923)
Recently, both Segers (in: Segers et al., 1992: L. costatoides) and Koste (in: Koste and Bottger, 1992: Lepadella latusinus sriata) recognised and described a Lepadella having a dorsal lorica bearing three pairs of longitudinal ridges and having a pair of acute postero-lateral projections on the foot aperture. The descriptions and figures by both authors clearly demonstrate that the same taxon is being dealt with, and that both names are synonyms. A subspecificity of the taxon with L. latusinus is doubtful, as the taxon was found in co-occurrence with L. latusinus americana Myers (Koste and Bottger, 1992). Moreover, it has already been recognised as a cosmotropical, warm-stenothermic species. The description of Lepadella costatoides was published in October 1992, that of L. latusinus striata in December 1992. As a consequence, the former name is the senior synonym and takes precedence over the latter. (ref. ID; 3004)
Intraspecific variability
The shape of the foot aperture is subject to variation. Envisaged here are the lateral edges, which can be straight (Fig.9f) or bent (Figs.9a,g), and the lateral processi which can be developed to a lesser (Fig.9f) or a greater (Fig.9a) extent, or be asymmetrical (Fig.9h). A form with asymmetrical processi laterally of the foot aperture was included in the description of Lepadella christineae by Koste & Robertson (1990: Fig.5c). Based on a study of specimens from the Pantanal region (Brazil), the typical L. christineae is here considered a synonym of L. quinquecostata (Lucks); compare Figs.10a-b with 10f-g. As the from depicted in Fig.9h shows only a superficial resemblance to typical L. christineae, and as it is identical to L. costatoides except for the above-mentioned asymmetry, there is little doubt that it belongs to L. costatoides rather than to L. quinquecostata f. christineae. (ref. ID; 6846)
Etymology
The name costatoides hints at the confusion between this species and L. costata. (ref. ID; 6846)
Material examined
Holotype: One parthenogenetic female, collected on 15 february 1992 in lake Iyi Efi (Imo state, Nigeria), deposited in the Koninklijk Belgisch Intituut voor Natuurwetenschappen (K.B.I.N.), Brussels, Belgium. (ref. ID; 6846)
Paratypes: three parthenogenetic female, same data as holotype, in K.B.I.N; one parthenogenetic female, same data as holotype, in the Laboratory for animal ecology, R.U.G. Additional material examined: specimens from Belgium (Segers et al. 1991), Oman (Segers & Dumont 1992), Madagascar and the Comoro Islands (Segers 1992), Brazil (Pantanal region), Nigeria (several floodplain lakes in the delta of the Niger and Oguta lake, Imo State). (ref. ID; 6846)
Dorsal plate semicircular in cross-section. Lorica produced posteriorly into distinct widely separated corners. Foot-groove almost parallel. Foot small; toes elongated and pointed. (ref. ID; 1943)
Comments
The description of the new species L. voigti by Hauer (1931) agrees with the description by Stenroos (1898) of L. dactyliseta - therefore I regard Hauer's name as synonymous with Stenroos's species. (ref. ID; 3036)
Measurements
Lorica length 78-100; maximum width 54-68; anterior width 30-40; toes 24-36 µm. (ref. ID; 1943)
Length of lorica 70-72; width of lorica 53-55; depth of anterior ventral sinus 13-14; width of anterior ventral sinus 32-34; length of foot groove 33-36; width of foot groove 17-18; length of basal foot joint 12-13; length of middle foot joint 9; length of distal foot joint 12; length of toes 23-24; length of trophi 18; width of trophi 24-26 µm. (ref. ID; 3036)
Total length 116; width 60; length of foot groove 28; anterior width 16; length of toes 20; depth of body 40 µm. (ref. ID; 3127)
Anterior margin of the ventral and dorsal lorica is nearly straight. The dorsal lorica has an open squared pattern which is arranged in three rows. These are robust pores on the last third of the dorsal lorica. The ventral lorica is slight. The foot opening is wide and short, and occupies the whole posterior margin. The toes are straight and sharp. (ref. ID; 4606)
Type locality
Two individuals in rheoplankton from Loddon River. (ref. ID; 4606)
Parthenogenetic female: Lorica broadly elliptic ornamented with a reticulate pattern of shallow depressions. Head aperture triangular in frontal view, ventrally with a V-shaped sinus, dorsally nearly straight. Ventral plate flat, dorsal with a high and wider, longitudinal crest, the later with a single median and a pair of lateral sharp folds. Caudal margin of dorsal plate with a projecting lobe. Foot with three distinct pseudosegments, the distal one the longest. A pair of equal-sized, slightly ventrad-curved toes. (ref. ID; 2913)
Male: Male unknown. (ref. ID; 2913)
Comments
The cross-section of this species is reminiscent of Lepadella rhomboides (Gosse), from which it is distinguished by its smaller size and ornamented lorica. L. degreefi is close to L. triptera Ehrenberg, which has a simple, high triangular dorsal crest, and also to L. punctata Wulfert, which had four low, parallel middorsal ridges, the species resembles L. intermedia Dartnall & Hollowday, described from Signy Island (South Orkney Islands: Dartnall Hollowday 1985), but neither the inadequate description nor the unrecognisable syntypes (in British Museum, Natural History; 1985. 2443-2452, examined) of the latter permits any conclusion on its identity. (ref. ID; 2913)
Type locality
L. degreefi was described from Sana Cruz Island in the Galapagos Archipelago (De Smet 1989). (ref. ID; 2913)
Measurements
Lorica length 65-67 (60-65), width 50-52 (52-54), height 31(30-36); head aperture width 20, ventral sinus depth 10 (13-14); foot aperture length 23-24 (20-23), width 14 (14-16); toe length 16 (13-16) µm (Of De Smet (1989) between brackets). (ref. ID; 2913)
The taxon is close to L. patella (O.F. Muller), but the latter species has an elongate lorica, whereas the lorica of L. discoidea n. sp. is almost circular. L. ovalis (O.F. Muller) and L. arabica Segers & Dumont are larger and flatter, and have differently shaped caudal edges of the dorsal lorica. (ref. ID; 2844)
Descriptions
Lorica circular. Ventral lorica flat, dorsal lorica domed. Head aperture ventrally a deep U-shaped sinus, dorsally semicircular in anterior view, straight or concave in ventral view, with stippled collar. Dorsal lorica smooth. Posterior edge of lorica slightly concave. Foot with three distinct pseudosegments, distal longest. A pair of equal-sized toes present. (ref. ID; 2844)
Male: Male unknown. (ref. ID; 2844)
Comments
The taxonomy of the L. patella and L. ovalis-groups is extremely complicated and in need of revision. The situation is aggravated by the ease by which these taxa form artifacts. The taxon described here has previously been considered a recognisable conspecific of L. patella by Hauer (1938), De Smet (1989: rounded form), Koste & Shiel (1989: ecotypic variant) and Sharma (1978: f. larga). However, none of these authors mention any doubt about this taxon being distinct, and none of them record morphological intermediates. I therefore believe that taxonomic stability is best served by considering it as a separate species. (ref. ID; 2844)
Etymology
The name L. discoidea is derived from the Latin discoideus, referring to the species' circular lorica. (ref. ID; 2844)
Lorica broadly ovate, produced posterolaterally into two broad triangular spines and two curved spines at the sides of the foot groove. Toes asymmetrical, right toe longer, left toe slightly curving and bent outwards. (ref. ID; 1004)
The lorica is broadly ovate and produced posterolaterally into two broad triangular spurs curving upwards. At the sides of the foot groove there are two smaller curved spurs. The lateral spurs have, on the dorsal side, a central ridge. The dorsal plate is convex and the ventral plate is more or less flat. the anterior margin is wide and the dorsal sinus is shallow. The ventral sinus is fairly deep. There is a clear stippled collar on the ventral plate, but the dorsal plate of some specimens showed very feeble and irregular stippling. This is a variable species and some of the specimens examined were very wide and the spurs of the lorica were much smaller and blunter than the normal species, and resembled the following given by Kutikova (1970). The foot groove is one-quarter the length of the lorica and is rounded anteriorly with the sides slightly diverging. The foot is stout and about one-third the length of the lorica. The last foot joint is longer than the rest. The toes are long, asymmetrical, and taper to a fine point. (ref. ID; 2600)
Measurements
Length of lorica 68; width of lorica 72; anterior width 28; length of foot groove 20; length of foot 30; right toe 20; left toe 14 µm. (ref. ID; 1004)
Lorica length 70-84; maximum width 72-84; anterior width 28-38; right toe 22-26; left toe 18-22 µm. (ref. ID; 1943)
Length of lorica 84-94; width of lorica 55-62; width at anterior margin 32; length of foot groove 21; length of foot 30; length of right toe 21; length of left toe 17 µm. (ref. ID; 2600)
The collar marking is in all cases heavy. The one variation is a slightly protruding right where the foot groove meets the posterior end of the body. (ref. ID; 3521)
Measurements
Body length 86, maximum width 54, length of toes 20 µm. (ref. ID; 3521)
Lepadella favorita has not been seen again since its description. Our specimens differs in a number of aspects from Klement's (1962) description, but, as the animal does not resembles any of the other known species of Lepadella, we tentatively identify it as such. The specimens has a differently shaped head aperture (with collar), a more egg-shaped and higher lorica and six instead of five shallow, rounded ridges on the lorica, as reported by Klement (1962). (ref. ID; 2923)
Lorica rhomboidal, with its edges curving upwards from the blunt lateral angles. Anterior width variable in the studied material. (ref. ID; 1943)
The lorica is rhomboid. The dorsal plate is convex and the ventral plate is nearly flat. The dorsal sinus is fairly deep and the ventral sinus is very deep. The anterior end of both the dorsal and ventral plates have a stippled collar. The foot groove is U-shaped. The foot is long and the terminal joint longer than the rest. The toes are long, asymmetrical, thin, and pointed. The forms found in Ontario are smaller than the forms described by Harring (1916) from the United States. (ref. ID; 2600)
Measurements
Lorica length 78-82; maximum width 70-82; anterior width 26-38; right toe 24-26; left toe 18-22 µm. (ref. ID; 1943)
Length of lorica 77-79; width of lorica 82-85; width at anterior margin 27; length of foot groove 22; length of foot 34; length of right toe 25; length of left toe 22 µm. (ref. ID; 2600)
Lorica almost rhomboidal and its edges curving upwards from the blunt lateral angles towards the anterior margin. Toes asymmetrical. (ref. ID; 1004)
Measurements
Length of lorica 68-72; width of lorica 70-75; anterior width 28; length of foot groove 20; length of foot 30; right toe 22; left toe 18 µm. (ref. ID; 1004)
In outline, the lorica is oval, the greatest breadth varying from five-eighths to three-quarters of the greatest length. The anterior dorsal margin is almost straight or only slightly concave, while the ventral margin is deeply scooped and almost semi-circular in outline. The dorsal surface of the lorica is produced into a very wide creset running the whole length of the lorica. The base of the dorsal keel is, at its widest point, at least one-third the maximum breadth. The summit of the keel is further produced into a very narrow ridge. The foot aperture on the posteroventral surface is in the shape of an inverted U, the anterior end of which is rounded and very slightly narrower than the posterior end. The foot is fairly stout and the three foot segments are approximately equal in length. The two toes are slender and sharply pointed. (ref. ID; 3334)
Comments
This species resembles both L. triptera Ehrenberg and L. pejleri Eriksen in overall size and in general outline, when viewed from the dorsal or ventral aspect, while in cross-section, it more nearly resembles L. imbricata Harring and L. rhomboides (Gosse), L. intermedia would therefore appear to be intermediate between L. triptera and L. pejleri on one hand, and L. imbricata and L. rhomboides on the other. It is probably closer to L. triptera and L. pejleri on account of the similarity of the foot segments and the anterodorsal and ventral margins of the lorica. Berzins (1976) has described a new species (L. gelida) from Aneboda, Sweden, which is similar to L. intermedia in general shape, though it has a somewhat narrower dorsal keel and a different foot opening. (ref. ID; 3334)
Type locality
This species was found in Light Lake and the Maiviken Lakes, South Georgia. (ref. ID; 3334)
Measurements
It is a small species, with a total length of 110 µm. The lorica is 70 µm long, 30 µm high and 55 µm broad. The anterior margin of the lorica is 22 µm long, while the foot aperture is just 15 µm. The foot has three segments, each 6 µm long, and two toes of 18 µm. (ref. ID; 3334)
Lepadella kostei Wulfert, 1966 (ref. ID; 1943, 2064 original paper)
Descriptions
Distinguishable by the general outline and the distinct shape of the posterior end. (ref. ID; 1943)
The species closely resembles L. apsida Harring, 1916 by the shape of its lorica and head aperture, but is easily distinguished by the presence of longitudinal ridges on its dorsal lorica. (ref. ID; 2914)
The lorica is oval and the dorsal plate is convex. The dorsal sinus is very shallow and the ventral sinus is V-shaped and is bordered by a prominent stippled collar. The lateral antennae are clearly visible. The foot groove is short and the terminal foot joint is longer than the rest. The toes are long, slender, and taper to a point. (ref. ID; 2600)
Lorica almost oval in outline; dorsal plate convex. Dorsal sinus very shallow, ventral sinus v-shaped and with a prominent stippled collar. Foot groove short. Terminal foot joint long. Toes long, slender and tapering to acute points. (ref. ID; 2704)
Measurements
Length of lorica 79-83; width of lorica 69-71; width at anterior margin 28; length of foot groove 20; length of toes 33 µm. (ref. ID; 2600)
Length of lorica 72; width of lorica 60; anterior width 25; length of foot groove 18; length of toes 30 µm. (ref. ID; 2704)
These are very small rotifera with the anterior edge slightly arched dorsally and a rounded, open front section ventrally. L. mascarensis is distinguished from other Lepadella species by a four-sided foot opening which has a small, rounded sinus in the anterior part. The toes are not especially long and are somewhat curved. (ref. ID; 4604)
The new species belongs without doubt to the triptera form group (Koste 1978: 192). Up to now, only L. triptera forms show spore, pearl, hump or bubble-shaped structures. (Koste 1981: 112), and while similar rows of rods are found on the dorsal lorica of L. minorui Koste, 1981, they also present wing-like prominences. One should add that the L. triptera identified by Kutikova (1962: 476, Fig.3) from the Lugo District in East Europe, shows peal-shaped structures which concentrate on both sides of the dorsal keel (compare with Donner 1954: 90, Figs.21a-b). These forms, however, lack the constriction on either side of the foot opening. (ref. ID; 2808)
Descriptions
In cross section the lorica is triangular and 36 µm high. Outline is broad anteriorly, tapering to the middle of the foot opening, and ending posteriorly in a slightly rounded tip. Ventrally, the opening of the head is deep. Dorsally, it is slightly surpassed by the apical end of the thin dorsal keel which appears as a distinct notch. The foot opening is oval with posteriorly directed margins. Foot composed of 1 non-movable and 3 movable sections. Toes straight and pointed. The dorsal lorica is covered with parallel, longitudinal row of cylindrically shaped rods, each of which stands on a flat, rounded base. Lateral view shows an arched keel, which in the direction of the head, slopes steeply, and posteriorly in a slightly S-shaped curve. (ref. ID; 2808)
The body is broadly pyriform and squarely truncate posteriorly; its cross-section is triradiate. The dorsal plate has a moderately high keel beginning at the anterior margin and continuing to the end of the lorica. There is no dorsal sinus, the anterior dorsal margin being straight. The ventral sinus is deep and broadly V-shaped. There is a distinct dorsal stippled collar and a bead-like thickening of the ventral edge of the head opening. The foot groove is broadly U-shaped, and it sides slightly divergent posteriorly. The foot is rather slender; the third joint is nearly twice the length of the first two; it has posteriorly a well marked sensory pit. The toes are about equal to the foot in length of quite slender; they are strongly asymmetric and not place side by side as in usual, but dorso-ventrally. The dorsal toe is slightly longer than the ventral. (ref. ID; 2939)
Comments
Lepadella myersi belongs the Metopidia-group of the Lepadellids including all those the cross-section of which is triradiate. The dorso-ventral position of the toes is not unusual in the genus and, when this occurs, is produced by the twisting of the ultimate foot joint so that the left toe is directly under the right. The species had no very near relative. The shape of the body, the cross-section, the strongly stippled collar together with the asymmetric toes, are enough to distinguish it readily from any other species of the genus. I am indebted to Mr. Myers for assembling the above description and making the figures of the animal. (ref. ID; 2939)
Measurements
Total length 120; length of lorica 87, width 75; width of anterior margin 30; depth of ventral sinus 15; length of foot groove 27; posterior width of foot groove 21; length of third foot joint 15; length of dorsal toe 27; length of ventral toe 24; depth of lorica 45 µm. (ref. ID; 2939)
Broadly resembles with L. latusinus (Hilgendorf, 1899) but differs from this species as: (i) lorica elongated; (ii) characteristic shape of the anterior end; (iii) distinct shape of the foot-groove. (ref. ID; 1943)
Descriptions
Lorica elongate-oval in outline, moderately compressed dorso-ventrally. Anterior dorsal sinus broad, slightly concave and with a broad collar. Anterior ventral sinus deep and V-shaped, with a stippled collar and flanked with two triangular spines at its external angles. Posterior end of lorica almost straight and produced into two widely separated and posterior projecting blunt ends. Foot-groove characteristic, almost semicircular for about first half of its length, then broadening out and diverging to posterior projections of lorica. Foot three-jointed, not projecting beyond lorica; last foot-joint longest. Toes moderately long and acutely pointed. (ref. ID; 1943)
The outline of the lorica is broadly ovate, the greatest width is slightly posterior of the middle of body. The lorica strongly dorso-ventrally flattened, without ridges. The anterior dorsal margin is straight, ventral margin with a wide V-shaped sinus and short fold present on each side. The lorica rounded posteriorly. A sinus and a fold, slightly behind the middle of the body, on each side of lorica, with corresponding pores on dorsal side. The foot groove is nearly as long as wide. The foot is rather short; terminal segment longer than the first and second segments, somewhat longer than their combined length. The toes are relatively long, divergent and pointed at apex. (ref. ID; 3237)
Comments
This species somewhat resembles Lepadella monodi Berzins from Senegal, Africa, but differs in the form of the lateral sinus and in the pores for lateral antennae on the border. (ref. ID; 3237)
Type locality
Some individuals were found in King Parrot Creek, near Kinglake West, Victoria, on 18 October 1953. (ref. ID; 3237)
Measurements
Total length 105-108; length of lorica 78-81; width of lorica 63-66; anterior width of lorica 30; depth of ventral sinus 11-13; length of foot groove 18-19; width of foot groove 12; length of foot 14-16; length of toes 30 µm. (ref. ID; 3237)
The lorica is oblong; it is widest in the middle. The dorsal plate is convex and the ventral plate is nearly flat. The anterior dorsal side bears a clear stippled collar and the dorsal sinus is shallow. The ventral sinus is deep and V-shaped. The foot opening is more than one-third toe length of the lorica and its lateral edges are parallel. The last foot joint is longer than the rest. The toes are straight and pointed. (ref. ID; 2600)
Measurements
Length of lorica 90-105; width of lorica 60-70; width at anterior margin 33; length of foot groove 31; length of foot 34; length of toes 27 µm. (ref. ID; 2600)
Lorica outline variable from subcircular to ovate. (ref. ID; 1004)
Lorica oval to circular in outline, compressed dorso-ventrally. (ref. ID; 1943)
This species deserves attention only because of its unusually well-marked collar on the dorsal anterior margin. (ref. ID; 2597)
L. ovalis is one of the commonest lepadellids in freshwater habitats and is variable. The outline of the lorica varies from subcircular to broadly ovate. Its width is sometimes a little less than the length. The dorsal plate is only slightly convex and the ventral plate is flat. The dorsal sinus is U-shaped and the ventral sinus is large and deep. A stippled collar is present on the dorsal plate and is sometimes discernible on the ventral plate. The foot groove is parallel sided and the edges of the groove project below the surface of the ventral plate. The foot projects beyond the lorica. The toes are short and pointed. (ref. ID; 2600)
Lorica broadly ovate; dorsal plate slightly convex, ventral plate almost flat. Dorsal sinus U-shaped, ventral sinus large and deep. Foot groove almost parallel sided. (ref. ID; 2704)
Lorica small and oval. Foot opening broad. Toes long and pointed. Lorica without any striations. (ref. ID; 2715)
This is a small variety with very slightly stippled collar. (ref. ID; 3127)
Dorsal sinus U-shaped with slightly convergent sides. Ventral sinus very large and subrhomboid in outline, its widest point being some distance from the front. (ref. ID; 3180)
Trophi: SEM photograph. (ref. ID; 7065)
Comments
L. ovalis is easily recognizable by the following features: 1) its large size and the strongly depressed lorica; 2) the relatively small opening for the head; and 3) the very short toes, about one-sixth of the length of the lorica. (ref. ID; 3180)
Measurements
Length of lorica 130-159; width of lorica 110-128; anterior width 30-42; length of foot groove 42-48; length of foot 32-40; toes 24-30 µm. (ref. ID; 1004)
Lorica length 90-112; maximum width 68-84; anterior width 24-36; toes 22-26 µm. (ref. ID; 1943)
Length of lorica 135-156; width of lorica 110-130; width at anterior margin 28-42; length of foot groove 40-45; length of foot 32-40; length of toes 22-30 µm. (ref. ID; 2600)
Length of lorica 153; width of lorica 122; anterior width 30; length of foot groove 30; toes 30-32 µm. (ref. ID; 2704)
Length of lorica 96; width 87; foot opening 27; foot 30; toe 27 µm. (ref. ID; 2715)
Lorica length 87; lorica width 83; toes 25 µm. (ref. ID; 2886)
Total length 98; width 60; length of foot groove 24; length of lorica 80; length of toes 18 µm. (ref. ID; 3127)
Total length 142; maximum width 110 µm. (ref. ID; 3128)
Length of lorica 130; width of lorica 114; depth of ventral anterior sulcus 26; depth of dorsal anterior sulcus 15; height of pedal opening 42; width of pedal opening 30; length of toes 30 µm. (ref. ID; 3275)
Total length 192; lorica length 162; lorica width 137; foot 40; toes 31; ventral occipital sinus length 36; dorsal occipital sinus length 23; frontal margin width 25; foot groove length 30; foot groove width 25 µm. (ref. ID; 4606)
This species differ from L. ovalis nominate form in: (i) lorica broader than its length, (ii) dorsal plate more arched, (iii) shape of posterior margin of lorica, (iv) shape of the foot groove. (ref. ID; 1004)
Measurements
Length of lorica 94; width of lorica 100; anterior width 32; length of foot groove 26; length of foot 32; toes 25 µm. (ref. ID; 1004)
This small Lepadella is very flat. On the dorsal lorica are 4 longitudinal borders and in the middle a ridge rises from the posterior margin and extends to the middle of the lorica. The dorsal lorica's posterior has a pointed sinus. The anterior margin of the dorsal lorica has a wide but shallow sinus. The ventral sinus here is deeper and triangulate. Frontal margin of the dorsal lorica dotted. The foot groove is pentagonal, with a notch on the anterior margin. The toes enlarged on the basal part, diverged and sharp. (ref. ID; 4604)
Type locality
Some individuals found at Mt. Paparoa enar Sweymoult. (ref. ID; 4604)
This species can be distinguished from L. ovalis by its smaller size and strongly arched and convex dorsal plate. (ref. ID; 1004)
This species is common rotifer and is also highly variable. The outline of the lorica varies from almost circular to oval. The dorsal plate is strongly convex and the ventral plate is nearly flat. The dorsal sinus varies from shallow to U-shaped and the ventral sinus is deep. The dorsal plate has a stippled collar and the ventral plate of some specimens also bears a collar. The foot groove is parallel-sided and the edges of the foot groove invariably project slightly below the surface of the ventral plate. The last foot joint is longer than the rest. The toes are straight and pointed. L. patella can be easily distinguished from L. ovalis by its smaller size and the strongly arched, convex lorica. (ref. ID; 2600)
Usually smaller and more rounded than L. ovalis, widest at the posterior part of shell. Foot opening broad. Toes short and points. (ref. ID; 2715)
Outline of lorica varying from early circular to moderately elongate-oval and ovate. Dorsal sinus broadly U-shaped and its depth about one-half the width. Ventral sinus approximately V-shaped, its sides slightly out-curved and posterior angle rounded. Toes about one-third the length of lorica, slightly decurved and tapering to fine points. (ref. ID; 3180)
Comments
It can be distinguished from L. ovalis by its smaller size, strongly arched and convex dorsal plate. (ref. ID; 2704)
The nearest relative of L. patella appears to be L. ovalis; the relative thickness of the body is sufficient to differentiate the two species. The anterior opening is also relatively larger in L. patella, and the form of the ventral sinus is quite different in the two species; in L. patella, it is roughly V-shaped and widest in front, while in L. ovalis, the sinus is rhomboid, with the widest point some distance from the front. (ref. ID; 3180)
There is considerable variation in the width and shape of the body, and its depth. The posterior edge of the plate is rounded in some specimens and in others is a bluntly rounded point. Many of these variation are considered to be due to the preservative as some specimens when changed from alcohol to water or glycerine-water showed a difference in the general outline of the body. For this reason the various variations shown are not recorded. (ref. ID; 3521)
Measurements
Length of lorica 75-80; width of lorica 58-62; anterior width 25-27; length of foot groove 24-25; length of foot 28-32; toes 20-22 µm. (ref. ID; 1004)
Lorica length 75-108; maximum width 58-74; anterior width 22-30; toes 20-26 µm. (ref. ID; 1943)
Total length 112; length of lorica 90; width of body 70; anterior margin 22; toes 22 µm. (ref. ID; 2282)
Length of body 80; length of toes 22; maximum width of body 54 µm. (ref. ID; 2385)
Length of lorica 75-100; width of lorica 60-89; width at anterior margin 25-29; length of foot groove 30-35; length of foot 32-35; length of toes 24-29 µm. (ref. ID; 2600)
Lorica length 68; toes length 20 µm. (ref. ID; 2683)
Length of lorica 75; width of lorica 54; anterior width 25; length of foot 28; length of toes 25 µm. (ref. ID; 2704)
Length of lorica 87; width 79; foot opening 22; toe 18 µm. (ref. ID; 2715)
Lorica length 79; lorica width 54; toes 18 µm. (ref. ID; 2886)
Dorsal lorica length 90; widest part 79; pectoral sinus 28-30x18; foot opening 19x15 µm. (ref. ID; 3083)
Total length 144; width 52; depth of body 36; length of foot groove 30; length of body 98; length of toes 46 µm. (ref. ID; 3127)
Dimensions are rather variable: length of lorica 94-116; width of lorica 70-86; depth of pedal opening 25-30; depth of anterior ventral sinus 25; depth of anterior dorsal sinus 10; length of toes 25-34 µm. (ref. ID; 3275)
Length of body 80; length of toes 24 µm. (ref. ID; 3521)
Lepadella patella biloba Hauer, 1958 (ref. ID; 2886), f. biloba (Hauer) (ref. ID; 1472), var. biloba Hauer, 1958 (ref. ID; 3506 original paper)
Differs from L. patella f. elongata (Ehrenberg, 1834) in (i) lorica relatively elongated; (ii) anterior sinus broader; and (iii) toes elongated. (ref. ID; 1943)
This species, originally described by Ehrenberg (1834) as Squamella oblonga, was repeatedly described and renamed over a period of almost 80 years. Then, in 1913 Harring reinstated it under Ehrenberg's specific name but in the genus Lepadella. Three years later, in a monograph on this genus (Harring 1916), he reduced it to a synonym of L. ovalis (Muller), a decision supported by Voigt (1957). The status of this rotifer, however, continues to be challenged. Bjorlkund (1972) considers it to be a separate species, Wulfert (1960) and Kutikova (1970) as a variety of L. patella and Koste (1978) merely as a form of L. patella. We concur with the last view. Since what we are referring to as L. patella oblonga has for so long (1916-1960) been regarded as a synonym of the extremely common L. ovalis, it is difficult to give an exact picture of the distribution of this species. (ref. ID; 3334)
Lepadella (Eulepadella) patella similis (Lucks, 1912) (ref. ID; 3083) reported year? (ref. ID; 1473), var. similis (Lucks, 1912) (ref. ID; 1345, 1836, 3688) reported year? (ref. ID; 2890, 3271)
Total length 120-125; dorsal lorica length 80-90; widest part 56-60; pectoral sinus 29 wide; head 23x28; foot opening 18x20; foot 25-30; toes 20-25 µm. (ref. ID; 3083)
Lepadella patella var. matudai Sudzuki, 1964 (ref. ID; 3536 original paper)
Descriptions
The lorica ovoid or pyriform, its widest part situated about 1/3 the lorica from the caudal extremity. The dorsal lorica either keel-like projection nor rib-like structure. The neck not developed. The posterior end variable, usually truncated or round, often projected. The foot opening as in the typical form shown by Harring (1916), but very often circular in shape. The foot, except for the base, always displaying three segments, the last one being 2-3 time longer than the last but one. The toes, two in number both almost same length and comparatively long, about 5/16 the length of the lorica, usually closed or often crossed but never ankylosed at the base. (ref. ID; 3536)
Comments
The present species resembles well L. ovalis (O.F. Muller), L. elliptica Wulfert, especially L. patella, in the general outline of the lorica, but the present species is highly different from the first in the relative breadth of the openings, in both head and foot, from the second in the structure of the foot, and from the third in the relative size of the foot opening. In size especially in the general features of the lorica, the present species is closely related to Lepadella patella var. mariae Rodewald (1935, 1960, p.558, Fig.453). The present species is, nevertheless, different from it in the relative size of the foot and head openings and in the size of the last foot segment. (ref. ID; 3536)
Measurements
Lorica: length 68-78, breadth 50-58, toe 22-23 µm. Ratio of width of the foot opening to that of the body: 10/33. Ratio of width of the head opening to that of the body: 10/17. (ref. ID; 3536)
Lepadella patella var. maxima Kertesz, 1956 (ref. ID; 1489 original paper)
Comments
The species Lepadella patella (O.F. Muller) is known from several localities in Hungary. Varga mentions it as a variable species. In the shallow bay of Aszofo he found specimens whose lorica bears on its caudal end, at both sides of the foot opening, a spine-like process. A similar growth has been described also by Hauer in his paper. The specimens collected at Farmos also possess such posterior spines nevertheless, apart from this character they must be considered as a new variant, on account of the characteristically high values of these dimensions. (ref. ID; 1489)
Measurements
Length of lorica 155-178; width of lorica 115-157; length of foot opening 41 µm. (ref. ID; 1489)
The lorica is almost circular in outline, with a marked narrow keel along the entire dorsal plate. The frontal edge of the dorsal plate is almost straight. The frontal edge of the ventral plate has very shallow sinus only, which makes it almost parallel with the edge of the dorsal plate. The foot opening is very broad at the distal end, and evenly rounded anteriorly. The toes are relatively long, strong, and slightly divergent. (ref. ID; 3572)
Comments
L. pejleri resembles quite much L. triptera (Ehrenberg), but is distinguished from it by the following character: 1) The almost straight frontal edge, 2) The broad foot opening. 3) The long toes. Although the morphological variation of the lorica of L. triptera according to literature is rather great, no intermediates between it and L. pejleri are known. This applies to the three characters mentioned above, except for a fairly broad foot opening on a specimen found in Sweden and figured by Carlin (1939). I therefore consider the present specimen a separate species, and name it L. pejleri after the Sweden rotifer specialist Dr. Pejler. (ref. ID; 3572)
Type locality
Vegetation, mud and detritus on the shore of the tarn Ektrask, Ab Tenala, Spjutbole, Nyland, southern Finland. (ref. ID; 3572)
Measurements
Length of lorica 68; breadth of body (lorica) 62; length of toes 29 µm. (ref. ID; 3572)
Different authors (Harring 1916) observed the flat and concave end of the lorica to be tongue-like pointed. Two strong dorsal longitudinal ribs are keel-like. The lateral margins of the lorica are drawn to a triangular and hook-like point. (ref. ID; 2834)
Measurements
Length of shell 96; width of shell inclusive wing-like processes 104; width of posterior margin of shell 40; height of foot indentation 32; width of foot indentation 25; toe length 28 µm. (ref. ID; 2834)
The body is ovoid in outline; the ventral surface slightly, the dorsal surface very strongly, medially convex; dorsal median line with a sharp, uneven longitudinal ridge. The frontal margin dorsally convex, with a blunt projection in the middle; ventrally with a rounded sinus. Laterally, the lorica is enlarged with 3 pairs of thin and transparent flappers, the latter being without any contact with muscles. The lorica prolonged posteriorly to a rounded lobe. The cross section of body is somewhat triangular. The foot groove is wide; foot short; toes straight, rather short and thin. (ref. ID; 3237)
Comments
This species in form and tallness very much resembles Lepadella triptera (Ehrenberg), but differs in the form of the frontal margin of the lorica, the sharp dorsal ridge, and especially in the presence of lateral lamellary flappers. (ref. ID; 3237)
Type locality
Some specimens were found in Creswick Creek, near Clunes, Victoria, on 11 June 1953. (ref. ID; 3237)
Measurements
Length of lorica 72-75; width of lorica 60-67; depth of ventral sinus 8; length of foot groove 12-15; length of toes 12 µm. (ref. ID; 3237)
The lorica is broadly ovate. The dorsal plate is convex and the ventral plate is almost flat. The dorsal sinus is fairly deep and the ventral sinus is V-shaped. The edges of the anterior ventral margin are acutely pointed and are diagnostic. The foot groove is parallel-sided and the dorsal plate projects over that foot opening. The last foot joint is longer than the rest. The toes are straight and pointed. (ref. ID; 2600)
Comments
Harring (1916) considered this species as a synonym of L. patella, but Hauer (1936), Ahlstorm (1938), Donner (1943), Chengalath (1976) and Sharma (1978) accepted it as valid species. (ref. ID; 1004)
See description of L. patella-group. (ref. ID; 1450)
Harring (1916, p.540) considers that the folds on each side of the foot groove are individual rather than specific characteristics, and places this species as a synonym of L. patella. In New Zealand waters the two species are sharply separated not only by the folds but by the shape of the anterior margins. (ref. ID; 2284)
Harring (1916) in his revision of the genus Lepadella considers L. quadricarinata to be a synonym of L. patella. The differences between these two species are quite distinct, especially in the proportionately wide lorica and in the acute points at the ventral margins of the head opening of L. quadricarinata. I agree with Hauer (1936) and Ahlstrom (1938), who describe L. patella and L. quadricarinata as distinct separate species on the basis of the above-mentioned characters and measurements. (ref. ID; 2600)
Measurements
Length of lorica 80-95; width of lorica 65-70; anterior width 20-24; length of foot groove 22-25; length of foot 25; toes 22 µm. (ref. ID; 1004)
Total length 100 µm. (ref. ID; 2284)
Length of lorica 85-100; width of lorica 75-82; width at anterior margin 25; length of foot groove 25; length of foot 25; length of toes 27 µm. (ref. ID; 2600)
Length of lorica 87-88; width of lorica 60-64; depth of dorsal anterior sinus 12-13; depth of ventral anterior sinus 20-23; depth of foot opening 16-22; width of foot opening 12-16; length of toes 20-22 µm. (ref. ID; 3275)
Lorica length 90; lorica width 70; toe 24 µm. (ref. ID; 4604)
This species is characterised by a low median keel on the dorsal plate of the lorica, flanked by 2 or 3 pairs of symmetrical lateral ribs, and a short characteristic crest at the posterior end of the dorsal plates. (ref. ID; 1412)
Measurements
Length lorica 92-112; breadth lorica 60-70; length toes 22-30 µm. (ref. ID; 1412)
Length of lorica 82 to 83; width of lorica 41; depth of dorsal sinus 8; depth of ventral sinus 18; depth of foot opening 20-22; width of foot opening 10 µm. (ref. ID; 3275)
This species are different Lepadella quinquecostata in 1) median keel of the dorsal lorica very low and hardly visible, with two pairs of symmetrical lateral ribs. The more internal of these lateral ribs reaches, but does not join, the posterior of the lorica, 2) lorica high in cross-section, with flat median keel and two protuberances on the ventral surface, 3) dorsal lorica terminates without crest. (ref. ID; 1412)
Lorica rhombiod-ovate, dorsal plate with a moderately high keel, sides of keel convex and meeting at an obtuse angle thus forming a faint median ridge. (ref. ID; 1004)
Lorica broadly ovate; dorsal median keel broad, forming a faint median ridge. (ref. ID; 1943)
L. rhomboides is a very variable species. The lorica is rhomboid in outline. The dorsal plate is moderately convex with a wide and high keel running from the anterior margin to the end of the lorica. The height of the keel differs in different specimens. The ventral plate is more or less flat. The cross section of the body is nearly triradiate. The anterior margin of lorica is narrow. The dorsal sinus is shallow and the ventral sinus is deep and V-shaped. A stippled collar is present on the dorsal plate. The foot groove parallel-sided and the foot is long: about one-third the length of the lorica. The terminal foot joint is longer than the rest. The toes are slender and pointed. (ref. ID; 2600)
Lorica has a keel on the dorsal side which is very tall and conspicuous and extends about half the length of the lorica. Toes long and pointed. (ref. ID; 2715)
Lorica rhomboid-ovate in shape, its width about two-thirds of the length. Dorsal plate moderately convex, with a very wide and moderately high keel, beginning at the anterior margin and continuing to the end of the lorica. Anterior margin rather narrow, its width being only one-fourth the length of the lorica. Dorsal sinus broadly U-shaped with a small median notch, its depth one-third of the width. Ventral sinus V-shaped and pointed posteriorly, the depth being two-thirds of the width of the anterior margin. Foot groove U-shaped and quite narrow, rounded anteriorly and with parallel sides. Lorica rounded posteriorly, without any emargination. (ref. ID; 3180)
Measurements
Length of lorica 80; width of lorica 52; anterior width 29; length of foot groove 22; length of foot 30; toes 24 µm. (ref. ID; 1004)
Lorica length 84-90; maximum width 52-56; toes 24-26 µm. (ref. ID; 1943)
Length of lorica 105-122; width of lorica 72-88; width at anterior margin 36; length of foot groove 32; length of foot 45; length of toes 30 µm. (ref. ID; 2600)
Length of lorica 78; width of lorica 27; anterior width 28; length of foot groove 23; toes 24 µm. (ref. ID; 2704)
Length of body 120; toes 60 µm. (ref. ID; 2715)
Total length 123; dorsal lorica length 79; widest part 59; pectoral sinus 23-25x10-13; foot 30-32; toes 30 µm. (ref. ID; 3083)
Although the Signy specimens differ quite considerably from L. rhomboides, and so merit consideration as a separate species, we prefer, at this time, to present it as a subspecies because of the small number of specimens obtained. The shape of the lorica is different. In the Signy specimens, the greatest width is posterior to the transverse median line, being located some three-quarters of the distance from the anterior to posterior end of the lorica, whereas in the sensu stricto species, the greatest width is approximately at the transverse median point. The anterodorsal and ventral sinuses of the Signy specimens are deeply scooped and have gently rounded margins resembling those of L. quinquecostata (Lucks) and L. acuminata (Ehrenberg), whereas L. rhomboides has a V-shaped ventral sinus and the dorsal sinus has a median notch (Harring 1916). In cross-section, the Signy specimens have a more acutely pointed keel resembling that of L. triptera Ehrenberg and L. rhomboidula Bryce. When viewed in lateral aspect, the posterodorsal profile of the lorica appears deeply concave above the base of the foot, which reminds one of the lorica of Brachionus urceolaris Muller. The Singy specimens did not have eyespot. (ref. ID; 3334)
Type locality
This new subspecies of L. rhomboides (Gosse) was found only in Moss Lake and Twisted Lake. (ref. ID; 3334)
Lorica broadly rhomboid, dorsal plate with a median keel, sides of keel concave meeting at an angle and forming a distinct median ridge. (ref. ID; 1004)
Measurements
Length of lorica 72; width of lorica 78; anterior width 23; length of foot groove 18; length of foot 20; toes 21 µm. (ref. ID; 1004)
Total length 100; length of lorica 80-82; width of lorica 70-76; depth of foot opening 35; width of foot-opening 20; length of toes 24-28 µm. (ref. ID; 3275)
Lorica oval, cut straight at the foot opening. Both dorsal and ventral plate finely granulated, the granulations mostly forming longitudinal series. Opening for the head with a broad, semi-circular excision. Foot rather slender, toes short. (ref. ID; 2817)
Etymology
We name Lepadella riedeli, after Dr. D. Riedel, who collected and kindly sent us the samples. (ref. ID; 2817)
Measurements
Length of lorica 53-55; breadth of lorica 38-46; breadth of head opening 18-21; depth of head opening 14-18; breadth of pedal opening 11-12; depth of pedal opening 11-17; length of toes 12-18 µm. (ref. ID; 2817)
Lorica elliptical in outline; depressed dorso-ventrally; dorsal anterior sinus widely V-shaped; posterior ventral sinus deep and narrow; ventral anterior sinus large, margin of sinus composed of a series of several small serrated processes. Toes separated completely; toes shorter than length of foot. Posterior end of lorica nearly right-angled. (ref. ID; 3054)
Type locality
This species is found in the plankton samples collected on August 7, 1949 among water weeds of Choko, one of the small lakes of the Matsubara lake district, Nagano Prefecture. (ref. ID; 3054)
Measurements
Length of lorica 89; width of lorica 61; width between anterior points 28; depth of anterior points 20; depth of ventral posterior sinus 23; length of foot 30; length of toe 21 µm. (ref. ID; 3054)
Lorica broadly ovoid, ventral flat, dorsal medially convex in median cross section; anterior margin of head opening nearly straight, ventral margin with a weak V-shaped aperture. Behind the middle of the body a fold, on either side of which is a pointed, slightly curved spine, both directed apically. Foot-opening broad. Foot as usual with four segments; toes relatively long, straight and sharply pointed. (ref. ID; 2886)
Comments
This specie is distinctive in the genus; the only other taxon resembling it is Lepadella neboissi, an apparently endemic Victorian species described by Berzins (1961). The latter has lateral folds, but no spines, and its toes are curved. (ref. ID; 2886)
Etymology
Named after the collector, Ms Lor Wai Tan, Department of Agricultural Biochemistry, Waite Agricultural Research Institute, University of Adelaide. (ref. ID; 2886)
Type locality
Lake Pedder, deep bay south side of Strathgordon road 10 km east of Strathgordon (1 km east of boathouse). Dark, humic water, >2 m deep, no emergent vegetation. 16.5 degrees, pH 5.3, 46.2 uS cm-1. (ref. ID; 2886)
Measurements
Lorica length 79; lorica width (medially) 61; anterior width of lorica 29; foot opening 18x18; length of toes 29; length of lateral spines 18 µm. (ref. ID; 2886)
The lorica is very elongate and narrow. The dorsal plate is evenly arched and the ventral plate is almost flat. No dorsal sinus is present and the ventral sinus is deep. There is no stippled collar in the anterior end. The foot groove is more or less parallel-sided and the terminal foot joint is longer than the rest. The toes are long and taper to a point. (ref. ID; 2600)
This species is a parasites which gnaws even thinner layers off the surface of sponges than Lecane clara. The movements of this animal are quiet; the surface eaten away by its flatter, less indented. The animal sticks more persistently to the chosen spot of gnawing. (ref. ID; 2740)
Measurements
Length of lorica 68-80; width of lorica 30-37; width at anterior margin 24; length of foot groove 18; length of foot 21; length of toes 22 µm. (ref. ID; 2600)
The length of the individuals found on sponges varied from 120 to 124; length of lorica 80 to 82; width of the lorica 42 to 44; length of the toes 30 to 32 µm. (ref. ID; 2740)
Lorica almost oval in outline, compressed dorsoventrally, anterior body opening relatively wide. Dorsal plate slightly raised in the middle, ventral plate almost flat. Anterior dorsal sinus slightly concave and marked with a stippled collar. Ventral sinus V-shaped, sides of sinus curving outwards. Posterior end of lorica rounded. Three tube-like projections present, one anterior and two posterolateral; anterior projection longest and arising from the right arm of ventral sinus; posterolateral projections almost equal, the right a little higher placed than the left. Foot groove almost U-shaped. Foot fairly long, terminal foot joint longer than the rest. Toes equal, fairly long and tapering to acute points. This species differs from all known species in the presence of three tube-like projections. (ref. ID; 1004)
Measurements
Length of lorica 75; width of lorica 55; anterior width 38; length of foot groove 20; length of foot 26; toes 20; anterior projection 15; posterolateral projections 9-9 µm. (ref. ID; 1004)
Small rotifer with nearly circular lorica. Dorsal plate with a high and very thin keel extending to the entire length of lorica. Posterior end of lorica projecting as an inconspicuous obtusely pointed lobe. (ref. ID; 1004)
Lorica almost circular and with slightly produced posterior end. (ref. ID; 1943)
L. triptera is small rotifer with a nearly circular lorica. The dorsal plate is slightly convex and has a very thin median keel extending the entire length of the lorica. The ventral plate is nearly flat. The cross section of the body is triradiate. No dorsal sinus is present except for a shallow notch in the middle of the anterior dorsal edge. The ventral sinus is V-shaped and deep. There is no stippled collar present. The foot groove is ovate and the foot is less than one-third the length of the lorica. The three joints of the foot are more or less of the same length. The toes are short and pointed. (ref. ID; 2600)
This rotifer was only 37 µm long and 20 µm at its greatest width, yet the trophi appear to be of normal size and measure 13 µm from the tip of the unci to the lower end of the manubrium. There are three foot segments but only the terminal one can be measured accurately (5 µm). The toes are extremely long, being slightly more than half the length of the lorica (19 µm). Details of the anterodorsal and ventral margins of the lorica and of the foot aperture were impossible to determine. (ref. ID; 3334)
The records of L. triptera are rather numerous, and quite great variations are found in the shape of its lorica. (ref. ID; 3572)
Measurements
Length of lorica 48; width of lorica 40; anterior width 23; length of foot groove 15; length of foot 13; toes 14 µm. (ref. ID; 1004)
Lorica length 58-62; maximum width 48-50; toes 12-14 µm. (ref. ID; 1943)
Length of body 64; width 48; toes 10 µm. (ref. ID; 2385)
Length of lorica 65-70; width of lorica 54-57; width at anterior margin 30; length of foot groove 23; length of foot 20; length of toes 20 µm. (ref. ID; 2600)
Lorica length 61, 76; lorica width 54, 61; toes 18, 20 µm (2 samples). (ref. ID; 2886)
Length of lorica 58-65; width of lorica 50-55; height of dorsal keel 15-22; depth of ventral anterior sulcus 4-6; depth of pedal opening 20-27; width of pedal opening 13-14; length of toes 15-22 µm. (ref. ID; 3275)
Length of lorica 61-68; breadth of body (lorica) 51-59; length of toes 16-18 µm. (ref. ID; 3572)
Lepadella triptera clydona Berzins, 1949 (ref. ID; 3036 original paper), var. clydona Berzins (ref. ID; 1345)
Descriptions
The lorica ovate, relatively broad. The anterior dorsal margin somewhat convex, in the middle with a small notch; the anterior ventral margin somewhat slightly concave. The posterior end of the lorica broadly rounded. On the back a high, narrow keel. It is not straight, but is waved (two bends). In lateral view the keel has a low place in the middle. The lateral margins of lorica are wing-like enlarged. The foot groove is broad. The toes are slender and pointed. (ref. ID; 3036)
Type locality
In the summer of the year 1948 several specimens of this subspecies were found in the submerged vegetation of Lake Straken. (ref. ID; 3036)
Measurements
Length of lorica 55-60; width of lorica 48-54; width of anterior margin 25; length of foot groove 15; width of foot groove 20; depth of body 28-32; length of toes 16-18 µm. (ref. ID; 3036)
The most frequent have an egg-like shape but there were also forms with wing-like prominences. The lateral wing-like prominences were hook-like bent apically. (ref. ID; 2834)
In cross-section this species appears to belong to the Lepadella triptera group. Different forms of this group were discussed by Koste (1981); L. tyleri somewhat resembles Lepadella minorui. The sp. nov. has the following morphological characteristics which are new to the taxonomic group: only a weak prolongation of the dorsal caudal lorica at the broad foot-opening base; trapezoidal outline of the lorica with caudal blunt corners; deep head aperture with lateral lamella and absence of a notch at the dorsal anterior border. (ref. ID; 1945)
Descriptions
Rigid lorica of trapezoidal outline. Cross-section nearly triangular. Surface of both plates finely pustulated. Dorsal plate with median keel. Foot-opening with relatively broad base. Head aperture deep with lateral lamella. Caudal lorica with slight constriction above posterior, blunt lateral corners. Three foot segments, last with caudal antenna. Toes very thin, elongated and pointed. (ref. ID; 1945)
Etymology
Lepadella tyleri sp. nov. is dedicated to Dr. P.A. Tyler, University of Tasmania, with gratitude for his interest and support during fieldwork. (ref. ID; 1945)
Ecology
L. tyleri was collected from open water in a small turbid farm stock dam (no emergent macrophytes) at 13 degrees C, pH 6.0, transparency 82 NTU, conductivity 390 us cm-1. (ref. ID; 1945)
L. vandenbrandei had not been recorded since its description by Gillard (1952), until De Smet (1990) identified the species from Zaire. Koste & Shiel's (1980) figure of L. williamsi is virtually identical to that of L. vandenbrandei by Gillard (1952) and De Smet (1990), and must therefore be considered to be a synonym. Additionally, the record of L. acuminata by De Smet (1989) and by Koste (1982); figure legend switched) also concern this species. (ref. ID; 2844)
This animal has previously been found only in Australia and differs from the type in dimensions, and in having a series of dots round the lateral edge of the dorsal plate. No collar was found. (ref. ID; 2282)
Measurements
Total length 114; length of toes 20 µm. (ref. ID; 2282)
Smoothly oval, highly-vaulted lorica with ventrally-directed head-opening. Dorsal lorica tapers caudally to a variable-length dorsal and laterally curved point. Foot-opening narrow and ends at base of dorsal lorica projection. Only three flexible, approximately equal length foot segments visible. Last segment with long, dorsolaterally curved sharp toes. (ref. ID; 2758)
Comments
The new species resembles the species group L. acuminata, which also occurs in Australia, and which is characterised by a more or less elongated and occasionally split lorica point. However the margin of the foot-opening of this projection is closed. The lateral antennae, which are dorsal to the basis of the caudal projection, in contrast of L. williamsi are very narrowly placed. In L. acuminata and its various modifications (Koste 1978) the dorsal margin of the head-opening is more or less concavely cut out. (ref. ID; 2758)
Etymology
Named after W.D. Williams, Dept of Zoology, University of Adelaide for assistance in collecting rotifer material and support toward this work. (ref. ID; 2758)
